TWO Devon councils are again offering emergency accommodation to help rough sleepers during severe cold weather.

Torridge District Council and North Devon District Council help to provide the service at the Freedom Centre in Barnstaple, which offers shelter to individuals if the temperature drops below zero for three consecutive nights.

A warm breakfast is also offered, as well as information about where they can turn to for further help.

Torridge District Council’s lead member for housing, Cllr Cathrine Simmons, said: “The immediate help the shelters provide is obviously crucial in periods of cold weather. However, it is also sometimes a catalyst to overcoming the big hurdle of initial engagement with this group and can provide opportunities to help individuals into better outcomes over the longer term.”

In periods of severe cold weather, where the temperature drops below freezing for three consecutive nights, rough sleepers can then access the Freedom Centre on Eastern Avenue between 8pm and 10pm.

After 10pm, entry is by a referral from the police, hospital or the council’s out of hours team.

For further homelessness and housing advice from Torridge District Council, phone 01237 428849, email [email protected] or visit www.torridge.gov.uk/housing